Ex-Al Ahly & Sundowns attacker training with Betway Premiership side

Betway Premiership newcomers, Durban City FC, are providing a potential pathway for former Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly forward Phakamani Mahlambi to resurrect his career. 

The 27-year-old, once hailed as a future star, is currently being assessed by the club after a long absence from topflight football. 

His last appearance was for Chippa United in September 2021, a match that tragically ended his season with a career-threatening Achilles tendon injury.

This trial marks a critical moment for Mahlambi, who has been without a club since his loan spell. The once-lauded winger shot to fame at Bidvest Wits, making his professional debut under the tutelage of Gavin Hunt in the 2015/16 season. 

His explosive talent earned him a move to Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly and later a contract with Mamelodi Sundowns. Despite these high-profile moves, his career never reached its full potential, with a series of setbacks and injuries stalling his progress.

Hunt, who is now the coach at Durban City FC, has offered Mahlambi this opportunity but is not making any guarantees. 

GAVIN HUNT IT’S UP TO MAHLAMBI TO REVIVE HIS CAREER

Hunt’s message to the player is clear and direct. “I can’t revive him, he’s got to revive himself, I can only give him the platform,” said Hunt. 

This blunt assessment underscores the immense pressure and responsibility now resting on Mahlambi's shoulders. The trial is more than just a fitness test; it's a chance for the player to prove to himself, and the football world, that he has the mental fortitude and physical capability to make a successful comeback.